How to Make an Unforgettable First Impression

February 28, 2017

Whether we like it or not, we never forget first impressions.

Ever.

The only problem with first impressions is that you only get one shot. However, when they go well, first impressions can do wonders for your personal life and your career. So whether you’re the shy and reserved type or the life of the party, we’ve listed a few simple tips for making a stellar first impression.

#1: Make eye contact
Making a great first impression always starts with making eye solid contact, because it lets others know that they have our attention. Try to imagine how you would feel if someone looked the other way when greeting you. When we make eye contact, we appear friendlier, smarter, and simply more trustworthy.

Whenever you meet someone new, challenge yourself to make eye contact for two seconds, tops. Trust us, those two seconds will make a world of difference when it comes to developing a relationship, personal or professional.

#2: Smile
Like yawning, smiles are contagious. Try smiling at a stranger the next time you go food shopping, and don’t be surprised when they smile back.

According to Psychology Today, we actually appear more attractive to others when we smile. Additionally, our brain releases a series of “feel-good” neurotransmitters when we smile, which helps get us into a positive frame of mind, great for when we meet and interact with new people.

#3: Look great, feel great
The way you dress is an extension of your identity, and when you look great, you feel great. Right off the bat, others will look to your outfit to determine what you’re all about, and whether or not they have something in common with you. Your outfit should also reflect who you’re meeting, and what you expect that person to be wearing.

When it comes to formal settings, it’s pretty tough to overdress. Just be sure to pay attention to details, and don’t be afraid to accessorize. Cufflinks, watches, and the right tie can make an outstanding first impression. And when it comes to ties, you just can’t go wrong with Squiddledee Ties.

Unlike your father’s straight-laced ties, Squiddledee Ties are full of personality, available in a variety clever and sophisticated designs that speak volumes about you before you even say a word. Between styles like the sociable Bloom No. 18 and the competitive and classy Turtle and Hare, there’s a Squiddledee Ties for every personality type. And they’re all made right here in the U.S. with 100% silk, for impeccable quality that’s sure to make a lasting impression.

#4: Get some sleep.
Sleep makes you look great and feel even better. 7.5 hours of sleep a night promotes good brain function and keeps you in a positive frame of mind the following day. The more rested you are, the more confident you’ll feel, the more likely you are to smile, and…well, you get the point.

#5: Do the Power Pose.
Good posture not only affects how others perceive us, but also affects how we perceive ourselves. To test this, researchers from Harvard Business School found that holding a power pose for two minutes increased testosterone levels, while sitting or standing in a sheepish, low-power pose actually caused testosterone levels to drop. So if you want to look and feel powerful, try holding a power pose for a couple minutes before you meet someone new, and maintain great posture throughout the meeting.

#6: Do your homework.
Whether you’re meeting your girlfriend’s parents for the first time or walking into a job interview, try to learn a bit about the people you’re meeting with beforehand. If it’s your girlfriend’s family that you’re meeting for the first time, ask your girlfriend about their interests.

For interviews, get to know the company, and prepare a few questions to ask. People naturally love to answer questions, and a few simple questions can be the window to a great conversation and an unforgettable first impression.